What is chrome on the Passat

**rapport25** · 10-02-2010,02:48 PM

Hi all,

Have owned my passat for just over a week and Im very pleased with the car overal

Just a qucik question what is chrome on the passat as when the dryer weather is here. Car will be getting a bloody good clean. Clay bar/paint restorer/polish/wax.

I'm guessing that all the chrome is simply plastic with a chrome look. Any help or advise i would be most greatfull?

Rappy.

**james_tiger_woo** · 10-02-2010,07:41 PM

When I cleaned mine, I merely used normal cleaner and just didn't get any Clay on the chrome - not sure if it mattered, but that's what I did. I don't think it'd matter really as it isn't real chrome.

**Quatrelle** · 10-02-2010,08:33 PM

Clay? - our lane's muddy enough without me putting more on.

**gribbo** · 17-02-2010,09:10 PM

The Chrome on your Passat exterior is merely a thin layer of plastic chrome foil bonded to yet more plastic. (similar to stuff used on kids toys to make them look more expensive). Best to clean it with a light polish with autoglym or some similarly less abrasive car polish, then simply buff it up with a soft lint free cloth.

**gamichea** · 17-02-2010,10:59 PM

In my experience a mild clay bar properly used will do no harm at all to your Passat's 'chrome'. A coarse one might not be problematic but I cannot speak from experience. I have never used polish or any other paint finish restorer on the 'chrome' and only use it sparingly when neccesary on the paintwork. After claying my preference is to apply 2-3 coats of a synthetic polymer sealant. Others prefer natural carnauba wax.

**rapport25** · 17-02-2010,11:09 PM

I would not be using a clay bar on anything chrome. All I was asking is if it was real chrome

. Have to say it looks good for stick on plastic

I have spent alot of time and effort on detailing cars over the last 15 yrs but not had anytime on the passat yet due to the crap weather. Have owned the car for just over 2 weeks now.

I hope the w end is dry so I can make a start. wheels first

**gamichea** · 18-02-2010,11:23 AM

Originally Posted by rapport25

I would not be using a clay bar on anything chrome. All I was asking is if it was real chrome

. Have to say it looks good for stick on plastic

Why ever not, with suitable lubricant? Bonded contaminants are found on 'chrome' as well as paint. You will find plenty on the Passat's grille in due course.

Incidentally, as this is a helpful community input over and above the scope of a question is often offered for the potential benefit of everyone.